7 Ways to Cure a Hangover

Face it; many of us have our go to hangover cure. It can range anywhere from chugging up a Bloody Mary, eating greasy foods, burnt toast, or even drinking a glass of raw egg yolk mixed with orange juice.

While many of these “fake pill” effects are powerful, there are better ways to turn down the house DJ that is still playing in your head.—ways that actually work.

Before we get into the nitty gritty, you have to understand that that a hangover happens by more than getting dehydrated—although dehydration does play a large role. Your body metabolizes liquor into acetaldehyde, which is very poisonous to brain cells. Another byproduct of alcohol breakdown is adenosine, a neuro-chemical that widens up the blood vessels in the brain and causes that splitting headache. Accumulated low blood sugar, drop in electrolyte levels, irritated stomach, and poor-quality sleep, and it’s a no wonder you feel like crap the next day.

Not feeling so well? You may be one of the millions who are lucky; studies show that 25% to 30% of people are basically immune to hangovers! That or you might still be wasted. It takes a full 8 to 11 hours for your blood alcohol content (BAC) to hit zero after you reach the amount of alcohol enough to cause a hangover. If you had a crazy last night, take precautions now—even if you feel fine.

These research-proven tips will fend off your nausea, pounding head, and cast out thoughts of general hatred for life

1. Limit your water intake

You’ve heard that dehydration is a major cause of a hangover… and it’s true. But what people don’t realize is that drinking too much water will only stretch out a stomach that is already irritated, leading to more nausea and even vomiting. The solution? Drink 8 ounces of water every hour you are awake after drinking.

2. Pop the right painkiller

Ibuprofen would be the culprit. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can increase risk of liver damage after a night of booze. Because acetaminophen and alcohol are metabolized by the liver, drinking a lot of alcohol can disrupt your liver from fully breaking down the poisons in the pill. Not to mention, aspirin can also upset your stomach.

3. Grab a Gatorade

After a few cups of water, change to a sports drink. The extra salt and sugar helps your body absorb the fluids quicker.

4. Make some tea– don’t drink it though

If you need to look presentable the next day, then brew some black, chamomile, or green tea bags in boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes. After you let them cool down, lay down and place a bag over each eye for 10 to 20 minutes. The tannins in the tea compresses the blood vessels, pulling the skin taught to battle puffiness.

5. Have some eggs

Eggs in the morning will provide energy like any other high-protein food. Also, eggs contain an amino acid called cysteine that may help your liver recover from the stress of breaking down alcohol. Egg yolks, yogurt, and poultry are very good sources.

6. Coffee anyone?

Caffenated coffee will increase your attentiveness and calm down the widened vessels in your brain. It contains a stimulant that helps with the feeling of fatigue. Do not overdo it though. Limit it to one or two cups to avoid caffeine’s potentially dehydrating effects. Also, be advised that when the caffeine wears off, you may be even more tired than before.

7. Calling all distractions!

Distraction, distractions, distractions!—whether that’s rock band concerts, taking down leftover holiday decorations, or working out— what you want to do is take your mind off the hangover. It won’t solve anything, but you’ll at least feel better in the moment.